The QRPer Board

I know that I could just tape the wire to the top of the pole, but are there any more refined ways to connect the end of a wire antenna (EFHW or EFRW) to the top of a fiberglass fishing pole?

73,
Mike, KL7MJ

What I have observed among others with masts like that is they used a small strip of plastic. Drill a hole sized to position it where you want it to rest on the mast. Drill another hole to secure your wire. Slide the plastic strip over the top of the pole when you go to deploy it.

I suppose you could use a larger pit of plastic with additional holes if you wanted guy lines. Or an inverted-V. Or a dipole.

I guess a "plus" here is that with a carbon fiber pole, this could help stand the wire a little off the pole, since carbon fiber poles can impact the antenna's electrical characteristics. Fiberglass doesn't have that issue.

I use these clasps I found on purses at the thrift store. My daughter calls it a "lobster claw" clasp. It fits into the pole easily when collapsed, and I can work it one hand. Since the edges are all rounded over, the wire slides thru it easily. I've seen them at some craft stores.
The string is just something I can grab to pull the section out without having to tip the pole over.

Thanks, that gives me some ideas...

Well, I tied a piece of thin cord to the top of the pole and soaked it in super glue. Thanks for the ideas!

I've used a 1 or 2 #64 rubber bands, also provides some strain relief and easy to replace as they wear out

I've used a 1 or 2 #64 rubber bands, also provides some strain relief and easy to replace as they wear out

https://www.sotabeams.co.uk/antenna-sup ... re/?page=2

Hi! all, that's what I use reguarly at the top section of my tactical 7000 HDS mast,

One for the end of my wire, and a second one for a small rope to keep the mast straight.

You can get it at sotabeam store, or with DXengineering.

72 Mike VE2TH

Looks like a great 3d printer project, thanks!

73,
Mike, KL7MJ

KL7MJ wrote: ↑Fri Sep 27, 2024 3:35 pm Looks like a great 3d printer project, thanks!

73,
Mike, KL7MJ

Bugger ... does that mean I have to buy a 3d printer too now